Odessa's New Health Collaboration with France
The city of Odessa and France have signed a cooperation memorandum in the health sector. The parties also agreed to establish a Mental Health Center based in one of Odessa's clinical hospitals.
The ongoing conflict has affected many, particularly veterans and displaced persons. It is crucial to ensure access to quality psychological and psychiatric care for all city residents.
A working group is already active in Odessa, assessing the technical condition and infrastructure of medical facilities. In the future, a visit from French doctors is anticipated to share professional expertise and practical skills.
«Our goal is to work together with Expertise France to create conditions where anyone in need of help can receive it promptly and without barriers. Supporting mental health is not just about treating illnesses but also about prevention, education, and combating stigma. We aim to build a healthy community where everyone feels secure,» stated Gennady Trukhanov.
The Mayor of Odessa expressed gratitude to the French people and the French government for their attention to our city and invaluable assistance, highlighting the personal contribution of the French Embassy in Ukraine to fostering cooperation and supporting urban initiatives.
The memorandum was signed by Odessa's Mayor Gennady Trukhanov and Ms. Sofia Oliynyk, the Director of Expertise France in Ukraine, which is a structural unit of the French Development Agency (AFD).
Also present at the signing were Ukraine's Deputy Minister of Health Igor Kopach and the head of the French Development Agency office in Ukraine, Ms. Axel Nos.
The memorandum outlines comprehensive cooperation in the health sector, focusing on addressing issues related to mental health, rehabilitation, oncology, and cardiovascular diseases.
